HONOLULU – In a decisive move to address the pressing issue of homelessness in Honolulu, Mayor Rick Blangiardi is pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Moku, currently serving as the Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office, as the new Homeless Coordinator for the City’s Department of Community Services.

The City has been grappling with the challenges posed by homelessness across Oʻahu, and Mayor Blangiardi recognizes the urgent need for a dedicated and experienced individual to spearhead the efforts in this critical area. Sam Moku brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and commitment to public service, making him the ideal candidate for this significant role.

Moku previously served as Director of the Department of Community Services under Mayor Peter Carlisle.

“I am honored to take on the vital role of the City’s new Homeless Coordinator,” said Sam Moku. As I transition from Chief of Staff to this critical role, I am fueled by the belief that together, as a community, we can address the complexities of homelessness and pave the way for lasting solutions. My dedication remains steadfast as we work collaboratively to create a meaningful impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness.”

The transition of Moku to the position of Homeless Coordinator reflects the city’s dedication to finding innovative solutions and fostering collaboration between departments to address homelessness effectively. The move also emphasizes Mayor Blangiardi’s commitment to leveraging existing talent within the City administration to tackle Honolulu’s most pressing issues.

“Sam Moku is not just an influential figure but also possesses a heart dedicated to service,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “His ability to connect with everyone in town is unparalleled, and I am confident that his warmth and genuine compassion will be invaluable in fostering collaborative efforts with the state and non-profit organizations. This strategic move is a testament to Sam’s exceptional qualities, and I believe he will bring about positive change as we work together to address homelessness in our community.”

A crucial element of this transition involves the cooperative endeavors of Moku and John Mizuno, who has recently taken on the role of Homeless Coordinator for the state of Hawai‘i. Both individuals share a longstanding relationship, stemming from their time as former teammates on the University of Hawai‘i football team. This partnership aims to establish a seamless flow of communication and resources between the City and State, forging a unified approach to addressing homelessness across O‘ahu.

Mayor Blangiardi expressed the utmost confidence in the abilities of both Moku and Mizuno to work together, adding, “This collaboration is a crucial step forward in our united efforts to address homelessness in Honolulu. By working closely with the Governor’s team, we aim to create a comprehensive strategy that leverages the strengths of both city and state resources. Sam will excel in his new role and contribute significantly to our ongoing initiatives to support our homeless population.”  

The City maintains its commitment to nurturing a compassionate and effective response to homelessness, and this strategic move underscores the mayor’s and his administration’s dedication to finding sustainable solutions.